Earlier than a looming determination on his 2026-27 participant possibility, Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden has a extra speedy concern.
Per reports, the 17-year NBA veteran was arrested and charged with misdemeanor illegal carrying of a weapon early Saturday morning in Houston.
“Harden was launched on bond, and he has a court docket date scheduled for June 22,” TMZ wrote. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst added that Harden has a “$42 million participant possibility determination he should make by June 29, however solely $13.3 million is assured.
“It has been anticipated Harden would choose out of the contract and signal a brand new multiyear deal to stay in Cleveland, the place he was traded in February,” Windhorst continued.
James Harden’s arrest comes after a disastrous ECF, earlier than potential free company
It is unclear what sort of impression Harden’s arrest may have on the upcoming determination, though it definitely does not assist in attainable negotiations. His inventory beforehand took a success in the course of the Jap Convention Finals sweep by the hands of the New York Knicks.
The 2017-18 league MVP averaged 16 factors per recreation on 38.9 p.c capturing, together with 17.8 p.c on 28 three-pointers, whereas additionally ending the four-game set with extra turnovers (17) than assists (12).
It was yet one more playoff disappointment for Harden, who’s had his share through the years, together with each Recreation 7s the Cavaliers performed within the first two rounds of the 2026 playoffs. For his profession, Harden has shot 34.1 p.c, together with 20.3 p.c from lengthy distance, in 9 winner-take-all video games, averaging 18 factors per recreation. (h/t Stathead)
Turning 37 in August, age can also be working in opposition to Harden, who’s a transparent second possibility to protect Donovan Mitchell in Cleveland. As an alternative of getting into a attainable free company with constructive momentum, the previous two months have put Harden at a drawback and with minimal negotiating energy.
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